Friday, January 23, 2009

Remembering Mark...

A week ago, I got a text message that floored me, and I still find it difficult to read to this day. I couldn't believe it at first, but the next day, it was evident -- my friend, Mark de Ocampo, is gone.

It's been quite a few years since we last saw each other, as life has led us to very different paths. But it only took a moment before all the memories started flooding in. All the funny moments we shared with friends from way back when. All the crazy times that defined us as we struggled to make do with our new life as immigrants in a new world. We were young yet mature, happy yet conflicted, grounded yet lost... I'd like to think that the years that followed have brought more meaning, but I know that there are still many questions left unanswered.

What comforts me when I think of Mark is knowing that he's in a better place. For all the struggles that he went through in his young life, he always kept his head up, and he always offered a helping hand to others even when he himself could use the help. Above all, he was a joy to be with and an understanding friend. Our time with him may have been too short, but we will always remember him for the laughter he shared with all of us. Mark, wherever you are, we will miss you dearly.


       




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